Apapa, Lagos – In a recent operation showcasing their commitment to combat smuggling, the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted seven containers containing prohibited goods.
The seizure, valued at approximately ₦292,244,857.00, underscores the command’s zero tolerance policy towards illicit imports.
According to Customs Area Controller BO Olomu, the intercepted containers included two 40-foot containers laden with 12,000 pieces of cutlasses and machetes, two more carrying 4,129 packages of frozen hen, one container with 368 jumbo bales of used clothing, and another with expired pharmaceuticals.
These items contravened Schedule 3 of the Common External Tariff’s revised import prohibition list and violated Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Mr. Olomu attributed the success of the operation to a combination of intelligence gathering and rigorous enforcement measures.
He affirmed the command’s commitment to both facilitating legitimate trade and ensuring strict adherence to import regulations, including collaborations with agencies like NAFDAC and adherence to end user certificate rules under the oversight of the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Highlighting the command’s stance on compliance, Mr. Olomu reiterated the warning against smuggling issued by the Comptroller-General of Customs.
He assured ongoing efforts to prevent unauthorized goods from entering or leaving Apapa Port without proper scrutiny.
The seized items will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and regulatory action. CAC Olomu expressed appreciation for the support from government agencies and affirmed the command’s dedication to upholding the law while enhancing trade facilitation and revenue collection.
